Lincoln Zephyr Engine Starting Problems

[fjfowler]

I have a 2006 Lincoln Zephyr. On several occasions the vehicle would not start until I slightly turned the steering wheel at the same time I turned the key. The Ford Dealership told me that that it was an anti-theft feature. When the steering wheel is in the locked position the vehicle will not start unless the steering wheel recognizes that the correct ignition key is being used to unlock the steering wheel. That prevents someone from stealing my vehicle with a tow truck, or wrong key. That makes sense to me because I know my starter was good and charging system. My vehicle starts immediately now when I slightly turn the steering wheel at the same time I attempt to start the vehicle. A reminder to only slightly turn the steering wheel.

 

[driller]

The Ford Dealership told me that that it was an anti-theft feature.

I'm sorry but I would have to ask them to show me where in the owners manual or shop manual that says that.

I don't think the PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) has anything to do with the steering wheel? Yes the PATS is looking for the correct key but the steering wheel has nothing to do with it. Sounds to me like an issue with the ignition switch, wiring or perhaps the shift interlock. Somehow moving the steering wheel allows an intermittent contact to function correctly?

 

[NelsonCollier]

I have a 2006 Lincoln Zephyr. On several occasions the vehicle would not start until I slightly turned the steering wheel at the same time I turned the key. The Ford Dealership told me that that it was an anti-theft feature. When the steering wheel is in the locked position the vehicle will not start unless the steering wheel recognizes that the correct ignition key is being used to unlock the steering wheel. That prevents someone from stealing my vehicle with a tow truck, or wrong key. That makes sense to me because I know my starter was good and charging system. My vehicle starts immediately now when I slightly turn the steering wheel at the same time I attempt to start the vehicle. A reminder to only slightly turn the steering wheel.

It's also interesting to learn that the anti-theft feature of the steering wheel may have been the cause of the problem. The steering wheel lock mechanism is designed to prevent the vehicle from being started or driven without the proper key, and it's possible that it was not properly recognizing the key and needed a slight adjustment to properly engage.

 

[billcu]

There's another post about the anti theft and steering wheel of the Zepher in the Zepher section. Maybe this is a common problem? I'll move this post to the Zepher section as well.